3 Different Types of Elevators for Modern Buildings 

Elevators are a vital part of modern buildings, and there are many different types to choose from. They can provide easy access to all floors for people with disabilities and improve a building’s energy efficiency.

There are many different types of elevators available today, each with unique features and benefits. Here is our guide to the most popular types of elevators to help you make the best choice for your building.

1. Hydraulic Elevators

Hydraulic elevators are a type of elevator that uses hydraulic fluid to raise and lower the elevator car. The hydraulic fluid is pressurized by a hydraulic pump, and this pressure is used to move the elevator car. Hydraulic elevators have a smooth and quick ride, making them a popular choice for low-rise buildings.

2. Geared Elevators or Gearless Traction Elevators 

When it comes to mid and high-rise elevators, there are two main types: geared and gearless traction elevators.

Geared Traction Elevators

Geared traction elevators use a geared machine to transmit power from the elevator motor and drive to the elevator car, allowing them to move up to 500 ft. per minute with a maximum travel distance of 250 ft. They use steel ropes and counter weight to move the elevator car up and down the hoistway. Geared traction elevators are typically more expensive to maintain due to the greater number of floors served and extensive rotating equipment.

Gearless Traction Elevators 

Unlike geared traction elevators, gearless traction elevators do not operate using gears. Instead, the rotating sheave is attached directly to the electric motor, which allows them to travel up to 2,000 feet per minute enabling them to reach heights of up 2,000 feet. Like geared elevators, gearless elevators can be even more expensive to maintain. It is very common to see this type of elevator in high-rise buildings and skyscrapers in a downtown setting.

3. Machine Room Less (MRL)

A machine room less elevator is an elevator that does not require a separate machine room for operation. These elevators are typically more efficient and require less of the building’s square footage, making this elevator popular with architects and building owners. Since MRL elevators use gearless machines and innovative ropes to move the elevator cab, it can be more expensive to it maintain over its life expectancy. This type of elevator is becoming increasingly popular in multi-family and commercial settings.

Choose Sandoval Elevator Company for all Your Elevator Needs!

If you’re looking for an elevator company you can trust, look no further than Sandoval Elevator Company. Our experienced team can help you choose the right type of elevator for your project, maintain them, and modernize them to make them like-new.

We maintain all types of elevators for commercial businesses in Colorado and Arizona and specialize in hydraulic elevators. Contact us today to learn more about our services!